Sardar Market & Clock Tower bazaar
Sardar Market, centered around the historic Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar) in Jodhpur, is a bustling traditional bazaar known for spices, textiles, handicrafts, and local street food. The market offers an authentic Rajasthani shopping and cultural experience within walking distance of Mehrangarh Fort.
Location
Sardar Market (Ghanta Ghar), Jodhpur, India
Duration
1.5–4 hours (short visit 1–2 hours; relaxed shopping and food 3–4 hours)
Best Time to Visit
October to March for pleasant weather. Early morning (7:00–10:00) or late afternoon (16:00–19:00) to avoid mid-day heat and experience best light for photos.
Pricing
Free to enter and explore. Prices for goods vary widely; small purchases from INR 10–200, handicrafts and textiles INR 200–5,000+. Guided shopping tours or a local guide typically cost INR 300–1,000 depending on length.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar) — iconic landmark and good meeting point
Vibrant spice lanes with fresh whole and ground spices
Traditional Rajasthani textiles: block-printed fabrics, bandhani, turbans
Handicrafts: carved wooden items, metalwork, leather goods, mojari (traditional footwear)
Rooftop cafés and stalls offering panoramic views of Mehrangarh Fort
Local street food: mirchi bada, pyaaz kachori, Makhaniya lassi, samosas and sweets
Festive atmosphere and evening lights — especially lively during local festivals
Itinerary
Early morning walk through the fresh produce and spice lanes. Great time to photograph and see vendors setting up.
Shops open early; quieter streets and cooler temperatures.
Browse textiles, handicrafts, and shops around the Clock Tower. Try bargaining and buy small souvenirs.
Start with smaller purchases to warm up to bargaining practices.
Snack break at a popular stall or rooftop café. Taste local specialties like Makhaniya lassi and mirchi bada.
Ask for recommendations from shopkeepers or hotel staff for hygienic stalls.
Return in late afternoon for cooler shopping and to see the market lit up. Visit rooftop viewpoints for sunset views of Mehrangarh Fort.
Evening is livelier with more shoppers; keep extra care with belongings.
Safety Requirements
Keep valuables (passport, large cash) in a hotel safe; carry only necessary cash and a copy of ID.
Watch your belongings — pickpocketing can occur in crowded lanes.
Agree price before accepting services (porter, guide, photos of people) to avoid disputes.
Stay hydrated and use sun protection in hot months; wear closed, comfortable shoes for uneven lanes.
Use reputable transport (pre-paid taxis or app-based where available) and agree fares for rickshaws in advance.
Tips
Bargain politely — start at ~40–60% of the asking price and meet halfway. For very small items pay the shop price.
Carry small change (coins, small notes) — many stalls don’t have change for large notes.
Visit a rooftop café for the best photos of Mehrangarh Fort rising above the blue city.
Buy spices in sealed packets if you plan to carry them on flights. Check customs rules for large quantities.
Try local snacks at busy stalls — popularity usually indicates safer, fresher food.
Respect local customs: dress modestly, ask permission before photographing people, and be patient in narrow lanes.
If you want a guided shopping experience, ask your hotel for a recommended local guide to avoid overcharging.
